Issue: Social Equity
Q
As Austin grows in size, stature and economic strength, sustainability becomes a topic of ever- increasing emphasis to all Austinites: Would you consider appointing Asian Americans to any commission or task force directed at creating strategies for the future in this area?
Asked by Asian American Resource Center
Q
The Asian American community is extraordinarily diverse. Many recent Asian American immigrants who have come to this region to build new lives and participate in the American Dream require assistance in understanding the services provided by city, the county and the state, as well as local laws, disaster preparation and emergency response. In other parts of the country, including the District of Columbia, New York City, Salt Lake City and Quincy, MA, they have appointed dedicated staff to assist Asian American communities. Are you in favor of appointing dedicated staff to address the needs of the Asian American community at the city, county and state level?
Asked by Asian American Resource Center
Q
The Asian American Resource Center (AARC) opened in 2013, thanks to the vision and hard work of the city and Asian American community leaders. Its charter is to promote cultural enrichment, provide social services and expand educational development for the entire community in the city and county. The Asian American community has worked with city management in developing culturally significant programs at the AARC and together, we have made AARC the most sought after city-owned facility in Austin. We are now re-starting our work to update the Master Plan on Phases II and III. The City has also completed a task force (Bond Election Advisory Task Force) that has recommended some funds for this effort: but it is not deemed to be sufficient. Do you commit to work with the Asian American community to include requested funds in the 2018 bond and to promote further the development of the AARC?
Asked by Asian American Resource Center
Q
This is a question that recurs every election cycle. Asian Americans are the fastest growing community, comprising nearly 7% of the Greater Austin population. However, Asian Americans are underrepresented on boards, commissions and committees addressing issues and policies pertaining to the city, the county or the state, though some improvements have taken place in the past 2-3 years. To address this disparity, what steps do you plan to take to nominate additional Asian-Americans to serve on boards, commissions and committees?
Asked by Asian American Resource Center